Journal of Ginseng Research (Oct 2016)
Biological characteristics of Paenibacillus polymyxa GBR-1 involved in root rot of stored Korean ginseng
Abstract
Background: This study aims to describe the characterization of Paenibacillus polymyxa GBR-1 (GBR-1) with respect to its positive and negative effects on plants. Methods: The morphological characteristics of GBR-1 were identified with microscopy, and subjected to Biolog analysis for identification. Bacterial population and media optimization were determined by a growth curve. The potential for GBR-1 as a growth promoting agent, to have antagonistic activity, and to have hydrolytic activity at different temperatures was assessed. The coinoculation of GBR-1 with other microorganisms and its pathogenicity on various stored plants, including ginseng, were assessed. Results: Colony morphology, endospore-bearing cells, and cell division of GBR-1 were identified by microscopy; identification was performed by utilizing the Biolog system, gas chromatography of fatty acid methyl esters (GC-FAME). GBR-1 showed the strongest antagonistic activity against fungal and bacterial pathogens. GBR-1 cell numbers were relatively higher when the cells were cultured in brain heart infusion (BHI) medium when compared with other media. Furthermore, the starch-hydrolytic activity was influenced by GBR-1 at higher temperature compared to low temperatures. GBR-1 was pathogenic to some of the storage plants. Coinoculation of GBR-1 with other pathogens causes differences in rotting on ginseng roots. A significant growth promotion was observed in tobacco seedlings treated with GBR-1 suspensions under in vitro conditions, suggesting that its volatile organic compounds (VOCs) might play a role in growth promotion. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that GBR-1 has both positive and negative effects on ginseng root and other stored plants as a potential biocontrol agent and eliciting in vitro growth promotion.
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